Skiddle's open goal: A weekly roundup of football news and events
Here's the latest football news.
Date published: 14th Aug 2023
The Premier League was back this weekend but the biggest game of the weekend saw England's women proceed to the semi-finals of the world cup with a win over Colombia. Despite falling behind to the South American side, England grabbed a goal back a few minutes later thanks to a spill from the Colombian keeper that allowed Hemp to poke the ball home.
Then, in the 62rd minute, Russo drilled in a goal which would prove to be the winner. With the Premier League returning, the first match saw Guardiola's City meet familiar company in Vincent Kompany's Burnley. It was a convincing 3-0 win for City, with Haaland netting a double to the delight of almost every fantasy football manager.
City's challengers from last season, Arsenal, also had a good start by beating Nottingham Forest 2-1, with a superb curling effort from Saka being a highlight. New boys Luton got the full sense of the task ahead of them this season by heading to Brighton and losing 4-1. De Zerbi's side continue to play brilliant football, but at least the away side got their first ever Premier League goal.
Everton wasted chance after chance in a slim defeat at home to Fulham, whilst Sheffield United look to already be in trouble having sold all their best players since promotion. They fell to a 1-0 home defeat against Crystal Palace who showed life after Zaha.
Newcastle looked superb in their opening game against Aston Villa, with signs pointing towards another memorable season for the club. With the score at 1-1, Villa capitulated after a bad-looking injury for Tyrone Mings. Failing to hold a high line, Newcastle ran riot and scored 5, with debut goals for Tonali and Barnes.
Sunday was the day of the Moises Caicedo derby as Chelsea hosted Liverpool as the player looked to have sacked off interest in Liverpool in favour of the higher wages at Chelsea. An entertaining game, Liverpool could have won and lost, not being given a penalty but looking shaky at the back throughout. Despite a 1-1 draw, Klopp's new system doesn't look like it works with the players at his disposal.
Oh well at least he has Lavia to fall back on.. oh wait no he doesn't Chelsea have stolen him from them too as they offer double the wages, contract length and agent fees that Liverpool do. When these signings are complete Chelsea will have spent almost 1 billion pounds as their financial machine rolls on.
With barely any time left to make new signings it looks like Liverpool's season is over before it ever began, with no defensive structure it will be another season of pain for their fans. It might look that way for Spurs too with Harry Kane leaving but they put in a decent performance away at a good Brentford side but still need that bit of star power at the top of the pitch.
Women's World Cup Semi Finals Fan Park- England
When: Wednesday 16th August
Where: Hastings Pier, Hastings
The England women are through to the semi-finals now and surely there must be optimism that we can go all the way? They have a tough test coming up against Australia which will be a big hurdle for the team, especially if Sam Kerr is in contention for Australia. Get to this fan zone and cheer England on with your fellow fans.
When: Sunday 20th August
Where: Arcelormittal Orbital, London
A brilliant event to attend for die-hard West Ham fans, here you'll see a host of club legends in conversation about their careers. Mark Ward will be hosting Frank McAvennie, Alan Dickens and Stuart Slater as you enjoy discussion before and after the Hammers' game against Chelsea.
When: Thursday 16th November
Where: Shrewsbury Town Football Club, Shrewsbury
Here's your chance to hear abut the fascinating time that was Leeds United in the 90's, when they were at the peak of their powers. Legends from the team of 92 including Mel Sterland, Tony Dorigo, Jon Newsome and Steve Hodge will all be in attendance to tell their tales and have a laugh.
Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.
